How to patch by hand
The same grid in running stitch.
Step by step
- Pin or baste a patch behind the hole.
- Work rows of running stitch across the hole, beyond the thin area.
- Work a second set at right angles to form a grid.
- Secure the patch edges.
Watch
DIY: HOW TO PATCH & HAND MEND YOUR CLOTHES (5:34)
By The Sustainability Enthusiast · Open on YouTube
Chosen from its title and channel: a 5-minute video from The Sustainability Enthusiast on the same topic as this guide. Embedded from YouTube with credit; we don't host it. It only loads when you press play.
All guides ›Patching
Sources
All checked 1 November 2026. We read these; we did not test the products ourselves.